By Janet Sellers
At the Monument Planning Commission meeting on Dec. 11, key land use decisions were made, including approval of the final Planned Unit Development (PUD) for a Panda Express restaurant and progress on the Falcon Commerce Center development.
Panda Express
Planned for Lot 5A of Monument Marketplace North, the new Panda Express would feature a drive-thru, landscaping, parking, and pedestrian access. While the commissioners expressed concerns about the building’s design, particularly its blank wall facing Jackson Creek Parkway, no public objections were raised, and the project was recommended for approval pending design refinements.
Falcon Commerce Center
The Falcon Commerce Center development was also reviewed, focusing on its environmental and infrastructure impacts. The development includes industrial warehouses and distribution facilities with substantial investments in water, sewer, and road infrastructure. The commissioners discussed efforts to address concerns from the Air Force Academy about Jackson Creek’s downstream conditions, including the installation of a buried wall to prevent erosion. The project’s shift from less restrictive PID zoning to a more controlled PUD ensures it aligns with the town’s comprehensive plan.
While the development has made significant strides, commissioners raised concerns about truck parking, traffic impacts, and the facility’s visual compatibility with the community. They also sought assurances about hazardous material handling and fire safety. No public comments were submitted during the hearings, and the project is now awaiting Town Council approval.
In addition to these discussions, the commission approved the sketch plan for the Woodmoor Placer Replat B, a commercial subdivision along Jackson Creek Parkway. This development, aimed at accommodating growing community needs, includes six lots and will focus on shared access roads, pedestrian pathways, and utility easements.
The commission’s ongoing dialogue with developers aims to balance growth with sustainability and community needs. As 2024 concluded, the Planning Commission was preparing for a busy January, which will include discussions on impact fees and leadership appointments. The meeting wrapped up with holiday well-wishes and appreciation for the year’s work.
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The Planning Commission usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month. It will revisit the discussion on the Jackson Creek North plat and Panda Express at the next meeting on Jan. 8. For further information on Planning Commission meetings, please visit www.townofmonument.org/263/planning-commission-board-of-adjustment or contact 719-884-8028.
Janet Sellers can be reached at JanetSellers@ocn.me.
Other Monument Planning Commission articles
- Monument Planning Commission, May 14 – Commission recommends approval of 30-acre commercial development (6/7/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, April 9 – Two recommendations for approval; high school students offered seat at the table (5/3/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, March 12 – Promontory Pointe water tank project recommended for approval (4/5/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, Feb. 12 – Commission reduces development density for key projects; Dairy Queen and Subway approvals recommended with landscaping condition (3/1/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, Jan. 8 – Commission elects Trehill as chair, hears concerns about traffic and access for Woodmoor Placer Replat B (2/1/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, Nov. 13 – Board discusses Jackson Creek North plat; Panda Express public hearing moved to December (12/5/2024)
- Monument Planning Commission, Oct. 9 – Commission raises concerns about ultimate use for Jackson Creek North (11/2/2024)
- Monument Planning Commission – September meeting canceled (10/5/2024)
- Monument Planning Commission, Aug. 14 – Proposed Ziggi’s project examined (9/7/2024)
- Monument Planning Commission, July 10 – Orientation workshop for new members (8/3/2024)